Starfield Error Code 0xc0000142 is preventing many PC version players from getting into the game via Steam. If we look at the screen’s error message, it says “Starfield.exe – Application Error. The application was unable to start correctly (0xc0000142). Click OK to close the application.” As you can understand, the Starfield application crashes while launching. Now, if you’re also one of the victims to encounter such an error, then make sure to follow this troubleshooting guide to fix it.
Though Bethesda has done a tremendous job with Starfield and the first universe by the franchise in over 25 years, we’re expecting that more & more role-playing titles will come out shortly based on the space and galaxy themes. But somehow, the Early Access of Starfield didn’t go smoothly like the fans expected. Though the overall gameplay and visuals are stunning, some unexpected bugs and errors are ruining the gaming experience for the players.
How to Fix Starfield Error Code 0xc0000142
To be precise, this specific error prevents the Starfield game from launching. It crashes quite often on the PC immediately after hitting the Play button. Unlike the common crashing issue, the 0xc0000142 error in Starfield fails to run or initialize properly due to some other system elements. It seems that there are multiple possible reasons applicable to such an error. Most probably, an outdated game patch version, corrupted or missing game files, an outdated graphics driver, etc., can be a reason.
In addition, some reports claim that an outdated Windows version or conflicts with the Microsoft Visual C++ dependencies can trigger error code 0x0000142. Whereas DirectX issues, Microsoft .NET framework issues, lack of admin access, conflicts with the startup programs, game compatibility issues with the system, antivirus blocking, game installation errors, and more can also cause startup crashes on the PC.
Fortunately, a couple of workarounds mentioned below should come in handy. Make sure to follow all methods individually until the problem has been fixed. So, without further ado, let’s jump into it.
1. Restart the PC
It’s highly recommended to close and exit the Steam client on the PC first. Then, make sure to restart the PC to clear any kind of temporary system glitch or cache data issue. Some of the PC gamers found this trick helpful. So, you can also try it once.
2. Run Steam and Starfield as an Administrator
Well, you should always run the Steam application and even the Starfield.exe application as an administrator on Windows to grant the user account control permissions. It’ll avoid several crashes or in-game issues with the system admin privileges.
- Right-click on the Steam application on your PC.
- Select Properties > Click on the Compatibility tab.
- Now, click on the Run this program as an administrator checkbox to enable it.
- Click on Apply and select OK to save changes.
Once done, do the same steps for the Starfield.exe application by following the steps below.
- Right-click on the Starfield.exe application from the installed directory.
- Click on Properties > Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Then select the Run this program as an administrator checkbox to enable it.
- Click on Apply and select OK to save changes.
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3. Update the Starfield Game
An outdated game version can eventually trigger multiple issues with the game launching on the PC. Make sure to check for the pending game updates manually to avoid glitches or bugs in most scenarios.
- Open the Steam client > Go to Library.
- Click on Starfield from the left pane.
- Steam will automatically search for the available update.
- If there is an update available, click on the Update button.
- Now, wait for the update to complete.
- Once done, restart the PC to apply the changes.
4. Verify and Repair the Game Files
Sometimes conflicts with the corrupted or missing game files installed on the PC might trouble you a lot when it comes to smoother game launching. So, make sure to perform the repair process of the game files by following the steps below.
- Launch the Steam client > Click on Library.
- Right-click on Starfield from the list.
- Click on Properties > Go to Local Files.
